The many police officers I have known personally are honorable people, and they serve in a profession that is almost entirely made up of the same. But we cannot ignore that recent and historical events have damaged many citizens’ confidence in law enforcement. Those who feel marginalized should remember that the small fraction of police officers and administrators who perpetrate injustice do not represent the whole law enforcement population. Police professionals and the elected officials who oversee them must not let defensiveness and frustration overshadow very real quality control problems in some police units. The media trumps up each bad incident as if it represents every cop every day. It’s difficult for good police officers to protect and serve when the people you’re serving expect you to harm them or someone they love. It’s not fair or good, but the small number of bad cops and corrupt administrators has badly damaged the reputation of police in general and this perception won’t just blow over with time. Even the majority of excellent police department should take this time as an opportunity to review how they prevent in their work race-related conflict, unnecessary citizen intrusions, and excessive force. Citizens should do more than protest about their outrage, and also elect local officials who will hold police department accountable. Police leadership must put aside pride to ensure the people selected to be officers are truly well-suited and well trained for the honor.
Posted on: Sat, 06 Dec 2014 13:31:42 +0000
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